The castle has played host to soldiers, traders and even royalty during its 900 year history and there is a chance to meet some interesting folk over the next few weeks. A different aspect of history is being showcased every week during the school holidays and young visitors can meet some colourful characters before returning to their own time.

The first Time Travellers week starts today when a medieval knight and his squire will be looking out for new recruits to help support the defence of the realm.

With medieval boys as young as six taken away to start preparing for life as a knight, 21st century visitors can try on armour and learn some of the skills with a sword to prepare them for a life on the battlefield.

Alternatively, young ladies who would prefer to leave battling up to the menfolk are welcome to learn the etiquette required to be a noble lady, with dressing up and lessons in courtly conduct.

The fun continues next week with the shadier antics of England’s outlaws, particularly the highwayman.

“The story of many highwaymen is a long way from the romantic view of characters like Dick Turpin – gentlemen antiheroes who charmed their victims as they liberated their purses and jewellery,” explains English Heritage’s regional events manager Karen Pike.

“In reality, these were not career criminals, but rather desperate men who would stop at nothing to earn a few meagre pennies to feed their families. And with execution the punishment for highway robbery, once they had committed their first crime, they had very little to lose.”

The Time Travellers Go... events run from Monday to Friday each week at Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Garden from 11am to 5pm. Call 01926 852078 for more details.